Human Rights: A Pillar of Our Operations in Costa Rica
As part of our commitment to continuous improvement in all our processes and the ongoing evaluation of our ethical trade policies, Grupo Esfuerzo has recertified in consolidated and recognized systems and standards related to human rights and environmental responsibility, such as Rainforest Alliance and Global GAP – GRASP.
In addition, we voluntarily decided to increase our verified ethical trade sites by 33%, using the SMETA methodology to understand labor, health, and safety standards.
We also maintain the use of the SEDEX platform, which allows us to assess our human rights management systems in relation to international standards.
These efforts allow us to affirm our commitment to the respect and guarantee of fundamental human rights ratified by the United Nations and the ILO, such as: freedom of association, safe, hygienic, and healthy conditions for our employees, regular employment, and fair working hours with adequate rest.
Furthermore, we promote an integrated social development to benefit the family relationships of our employees and better work/life balance, also guaranteeing a discrimination-free work environment where they receive a friendly, respectful, adequate, and well-compensated treatment in exchange for each individual’s effort.
We have also adopted gender equality policies, committing to equity and human rights for all our workers.
We have already signed five collective agreements with worker representatives, offering conditions that exceed the guarantees established by our legislation.
In addition, we have our own code of ethics, which is communicated and shared with all our stakeholders (clients, suppliers, employees, community, and regulatory entities).
We have also formed partnerships with organizations like Stronger Together to design robust, bias-free ethical recruitment procedures, allowing us to hire personnel responsibly and safely.
Our responsibility as a leader in the Costa Rican banana sector
At Grupo Esfuerzo, we are committed and work together with various worker organizations, with representatives freely elected by employees. By having a diversity of associated groups, the company demonstrates an open policy and good relationships with all people linked to our operations.
We firmly believe that by providing the right conditions, we can build and sustain a healthy, harmonious organizational culture that supports our employees both within and outside the company.
Contact us if you would like to learn more about our commitments and actions regarding sustainability and human rights.